SPT Window Air Conditioner

While a central air conditioning system is ideal, not all homes come equipped with one, especially if you don’t live in the south where summer temperatures are felt year-round. Installing central air is also expensive, so it makes more sense to purchase an AC unit that you can install in your window (if you don’t already have central air).

Air conditioning is especially important for the elderly and those suffering from various medical conditions. When shopping for a new window unit, there are a few important things to consider.

Begin by measuring the room in which you plan to install the window AC unit. The total square footage will reveal how many BTUs the unit must have to adequately cool the room. If your room is under 350 square feet, then a 5,000 BTU unit will suffice. Use an 8,000 BTU unit for rooms measuring 350 to 550 square feet, a 12,000 BTU unit for 550 to 1,050 square feet, an 18,500 BTU unit for 1,050 to 1,600 square feet and a 25,000 BTU unit for anything over 1,600 square feet.

Next, you need to make sure the air conditioner has a long enough cord to reach the nearest outlet and that the voltage isn’t too high for the outlet. For example, the Whirlpool 115V/15,000 BTU (with remote) has a Lcdi power cord that is 4.9 ft. in length. At the end of the cord is a 3-prong grounded plug designed for a 115V electrical outlet. That means if your outlet is more than 5 feet away or you only have a two-prong outlet, this model wouldn’t work.

Since you can’t move your window, it’s also essential that you select a window AC unit that will move the airflow in your direction. If you need to install the unit higher up, make sure the vent can be aimed downward. If your window is to the left, make sure the vent can be set toward the right. The Frigidaire 115V Air Conditioner (no remote) has 2-way air direction to better cool you down no matter where you are sitting.

Once you’ve picked the perfect air conditioner and installed it in your window, you’ll need to know when to use each of the settings. The fan-only mode is perfect for days without high heat and humidity that still require a nice breeze. This setting won’t cool the air though, as it just circulates the air that’s already in the room. The cooling mode is what you want to use to bring down the temperature. You’ll need to press the up or down buttons to set your desired temperature. There’s also a fan setting that allows you to program whether you want the air to flow slowly or at a medium or fast pace.

• Always check for an Energy Star certification, as these models are said to be 30 percent more efficient than models that don’t have the certification. The Frigidaire 115V/8,000 BTU (with temp sensing remote) is an example of a window AC unit that has this important distinction.
• Consider a few extra features that may not be essential, but might meet a specific need you may have. For example, some units have a timer and a sleep function. That benefit will reduce the electricity you use, as the unit will run long enough to get you comfortable so that you can fall asleep, but then shut off while you remain in dreamland.
• If mobility is an issue for anyone in your home, look for a model that has a remote control. The remote gives you the ability to lower the temperature or turn the unit off without having to get up from your seat.
• Users that are sensitive to loud noises will need to look for models that run quietly. Allergy suffers should look for models that have a clean air ionizer to take the pollen and impurities out of the air.
• Window AC units are heavy. It’s best to recruit help when installing your newly purchased unit.
• It is important to regularly clean the air conditioner filter. How often you need to clean the filter depends on how much you use the unit, but generally, once a month is a good goal. The filter will either slide out the side, or you’ll have to pop the front of the unit and pull the filter up and out. Simply use a little dish soap and water to release the trapped dust and allergens and then let the filter air dry before putting it back in the air conditioner.
• When comparing prices for window AC units, it is important to remember that price varies based on BTUs and other features.